Capitalism & Slavery by Eric Williams

This influential work explores the intricate relationship between the rise of capitalism and the transatlantic slave trade, arguing that the economic benefits derived from slavery were instrumental in the development of modern capitalism. The book delves into how the exploitation of enslaved Africans provided the capital necessary for the industrial revolution and fueled the economic growth of European nations. It challenges traditional narratives by highlighting the economic motivations behind the abolition of slavery, suggesting that it was driven more by economic shifts than by moral considerations. Through a detailed examination of historical data, it presents a compelling case for understanding slavery as a foundational element in the capitalist system.

Purchase from Bookshop.org